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One strategy for attracting a dedicated following on social media sites is making predictions about the future of your industry, Lewis Howes writes. "[Y]our job is to share your vision with your followers, and either warn them of danger or highlight opportunities coming in the future," he writes. Other ways to be a leader in online activity include offering bonuses such as free samples or product training, and connecting with people offline.

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Startups should try to build equal partnerships with PR firms, writes Alison Coleman. "[Y]our job is to supply your PR or media agency with the kind of stories that people will read and populate through their social media networks," she writes. Look for a PR firm that understands your industry, and make sure your strategies are aligned, she writes.

A Creative Group survey shows Facebook is the leader among social networks for small businesses. As such, it's the best place to start for entrepreneurs who are just getting into social media, writes Rieva Lesonsky, CEO of GrowBiz Media. Note that using social media requires two-way communication with followers, and keep in mind that other networks out there may be worthwhile as well.

If you use ad templates, it's wise to customize them to explain what sets your business apart, Robert Moskowitz writes. "Your prospects and customers need to understand exactly what you're offering, why it's so great, and how to reach you when they're interested," he writes. Include a clear call to action and keep tabs on how many people are seeing your ads.

Tresorit is one of several cloud-based storage services, but a distinguishing feature is its advanced encryption of data, Dave Johnson writes. The company is so confident of its security that it is offering $10,000 to anyone who can hack into its system. Tresorit is available for Windows, and iOS and Android versions are in the works.

If you've recently become a manager after spending years as a high-performing salesperson, it's important to avoid meddling in most of your team's sales calls, writes Scott Edinger, founder of Edinger Consulting Group. "[Y]our job now is to open doors for, back up, and develop your future stars; not to outshine them [or do their work for them]," he writes. Step in when your assistance is needed, but make sure your representatives maintain control of their accounts, he writes.